Friday Faves- Summer Recipes

A few months ago I shared five recipes you need to try this summer (you can read it here), and it was a huge hit! I decided to do another edition, this time focusing on healthy foods perfect for cooling down this summer and recipes that are made for entertaining. During the summer I crave sweet treats, especially ice cream and fresh fruit (what a combo, right?!). I enjoy trying out the healthy recipes other bloggers have created that satisfy those cravings without adding on the guilt. I also love inviting friends over for dinner and cooking up a storm. I’m known for making way too much food, but it’s just so much fun that I can’t help myself.

When I am wanting to try something new, I usually hit up Pinterest for ideas. I have stumbled upon so many neat bloggers this way, and I am excited to share some of them with you today. 

Strawberry Banana Popsicles

 

This delicious looking sweet treat is from the blog called Five Heart Home. The popsicles have fresh fruit, yogurt and are low in sugar, making it the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth and cool down during the summer. The blog is written by a sweet woman called Samantha, who is a mother, wife and a sinner saved by grace. I love reading her blog, because she shares delicious recipes that use fresh fruits and veggies, and that are quick, simple and look amazing. 

Watermelon Splash Smoothie

I don’t know about you, but I drink smoothies all the time during the summer! This smoothie is so simple and full of my two favorite summer fruits: watermelon and strawberry. The blog, called FitxBrit, is written by Brit, a local Dallas blogger who is also a Dallas Fitness Ambassador. She has such a passion for fitness, and I love that she wants to be a good role model for her daughter by living her active lifestyle and sharing that with her. If you’re looking to be inspired this summer, you’ll love her blog! 

Watermelon Mango Slushies

When I was in high school, I loved getting slushes at Sonic, but they are full of sugar and who knows what, which is why I don’t get them anymore. When I found this recipe from Grain Crazy, I was pumped. Watermelon and mango? Heck yes. Slushie? I’m sold. Grain Crazy is run by a mother daughter team, and I love that they work together to make healthy recipes to share with others. Family is so important, and it’s neat to see it on this blog as well. 

Cayenne Lime Popcorn

In my 10 Things to Do This Summer post, I wrote about having a movie night with friends, popping popcorn and having a blast together. This recipe would be the perfect one to make for a movie night like that one! It’s such a great alternative to using microwaved popcorn, and I know it would be a hit. This blog, Chemistry Cachet, is written by Alexis, a Texan blogger who shares healthy recipes and so much more. You need to check it out! 

Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls

One of the first times we had dinner with Matt and Brittany they made spring rolls and I was so impressed! Spring rolls are perfect for summer entertaining, because they are fairly simple to assemble (once you get the hang of the rice paper), healthy and gorgeous. This blog, Droolfactor, had definitely earned its name. By just scrolling through their homepage, you’ll be blown away by the beautiful photography and healthy foods they have made. And don’t come crying to me when your stomach starts growling. ;)

Quinoa salad with spinach, strawberries, and blueberries

This salad would be the perfect side for a summer dinner party. It has quinoa (which is one of my favorite superfoods!), spinach, strawberries, blueberries and a homemade balsamic vinaigrette dressing. Talk about a power punch of nutrients and vitamins! Julia’s Album is written by Julia, a blogger who cooks up some yummy looking foods and specializes in gluten-free options for busy people. I love how vibrant her photos are, and after discovering her blog, I want to make all of her recipes! 

So tell me, which of these do you want to try, and what is your favorite summer recipe to make? I can’t wait to hear what you have to say!